According to Volvo the new V60 Sportwagon is aimed at people who want a S60 with more space and practicality. Customers who want to carry large loads will choose the V70, which is more in line with the traditional, boxy Volvo estate. Apparently the target market values style over ultimate load space, which is why the V60 has short overhangs and a tapering roof line.

European V60s receive the firmer 'dynamic' chassis set-up as standard; in other markets a softer 'touring' configuration is available. Volvo also offers its FOUR-C 'active chassis' on all V60s. There is also plenty of technology designed to detect and prevent skidding, including traction control that channels torque to the outer front wheel to pull the car around tight corners.

Power comes from a range of engines with a spread of outputs from 115- to 304bhp. The latter of those two figures comes from the 3.0-litre, turbocharged straight-six of the T6 model. According to Volvo the T6 will do 0-62mph in 6.6 seconds and return 27.7mpg on the combined cycle. Other petrol engines include 150- and 180bhp 1.6-litre units. Three diesel engines are offered from the 1.6-litre DRIVe to the 205bhp, 2.4-litre D5.

Being a Volvo the V60 will come with plenty of safety systems including automatic brakes that operate if a pedestrian or another vehicle is in the car's path.

The V60 will go on sale in the autumn; prices and specifications will be announced later this year.